Pimātisiwin takes on the impact & privilege of good food choices

You are what you eat. That old adage is ringing true for a group of young people in Saskatoon as they hit the stage for their first professional show.

Pimātisiwin is this year’s production from the Circle of Voices (COV) program. The theatre school pairs young aspiring artists with working professionals to mentor and encourage their talents and artistic expression. Jolanta Bird is making her debut with Gordon Tootoosis Nīkānīwin Theatre. she says the COV program has opened her eyes to a whole new world of art.

“This program is something I definitely needed at this time in my life.” She explains, “Together we’re building not only a play, but a sense of a community of new artists coming together to make something great.”

(L-R) Liam Scramstad and Jolanta Bird perform in Pimatisiwin as part of the Circle of Voices program. (Britainy Zapshalla)

Pimātisiwin is the latest play by COV alumni and accomplished actor, director and playwright Curtis Peeteetuce. The show follows four intertwining stories of the Kihew family.

“This story shows that when it comes to food, our choices affect us all,” explains Peeteetuce. From health concerns and poverty to incarceration and career choices, these lives revolve around and reflect the choices they’ve made in their lives with regards to food.”

“This story shows that when it comes to food, our choices affect us all.”

“The reality of food is it’s supposed to be a right but in our society, good food is actually a privilege,” says Peeteetuce. “People with resources can make healthier choices.”

The subject of this play made it an easy fit for Wannuskewin Heritage Park and CHEP (Childhood Hunger Education Program). The groups are proud partners in this presentation by the next generation of artists in Saskatoon.

Bird says this play will have audiences thinking more deeply about the choices they make.

“Everyone has their own experience with food whether it’s not having enough or making unhealthy choices.” She explains, “Food affects all our lives in some way or another. It’s what ties us all together.”

Britainy ZapshallaWith more than 15 years as an arts reporter at CBC Radio-Canada under her belt, Britainy Zapshalla considers herself not only an expert but also a die hard fan of Saskatchewan’s entertainment scene. She’s a regular contributor to CTV Morning Live in Saskatoon and loves to help people plan their weekends with Brit’s Picks.